Muhummad Ali Center

from A Civil Rights Tour of Louisville

I. Willis Cole Home

Muhammad Ali Center

144 North 6th Street

Muhammad Ali was born right here in Louisville and arguably is known as one of the best fighters of all time. He earned his first of three world heavyweight titles in 1964 after defeating Sonny Liston. Muhammad Ali was a highly outspoken critic of racism and played a pivotal role in fighting for black civil rights. His fame allowed him to express his voice publicly about the prevalence of racism. Notable is his “trash talk” before and after matches often attempting to predict the results of his matches. Did you know he was correct in 13 out of 17 of his fights? Cassius Clay was the name Ali was born with, but upon joining the controversial Nation of Islam, he changed his name to Muhammad Ali. While being a part of the Nation of Islam, Ali first encountered long-time friend Malcolm (Shabazz) X. Part of the draw to the Nation of Islam at the time was its emphasis on self-determination in the black community.

Ali left the NOI and converted to Orthodox Islam because he felt it relayed a message of universal justice and peace that the Nation did not. Ali was called a “draft dodger” for refusing the Vietnam War draft as a conscientious objector,

due to his religious affiliation, and was sentenced to prison. Ali’s opposition brought the controversies surrounding the war up front. Ali’s conviction was reversed by the Supreme Court, and he was able to return to boxing. Upon his return, Ali grabbed his second title by defeating George Foreman in 1974 against all odds. Ali eventually retired in 1981 and his legacy has led him to hold many achievements not only as an athlete but as voice for African Americans during the civil rights movement. The Muhammad Ali Center opened in 2005, and promotes cross-cultural understanding and empowerment. It also serves as a tribute to Muhammad.